Styling Kilt Outfit for Formal and Casual Events!

Every Scot feels proud while wearing his traditional attire. To showcase their prominence, they make sure to wear their kilt outfits on every type of event whether it is a formal or a casual one. Individuals new to the kilt remain confused about styling outfits for ceremonial or non-formal events. This discussion is for them because we will educate them about styling tips, mistakes to avoid, and answer queries they usually ask on different platforms. First, let’s provide an overview of a kilt outfit.

The Anatomy of a Kilt Outfit

People consider a kilt outfit to be just the kilt and its attachments, like the pin and belt & buckle. They should correct this misconception since a kilt outfit is a complete Scottish Highland Dress. The dress has many components including:

You can ask here what differentiates them for casual and formal events. The number of attachments remains almost the same while variations in them come in front. Let’s proceed to formal and casual kilt styling for more clarifications.

Formal Kilt Outfit Styling

Formal events are occasions that have a proper agenda and structure. These events have a proper dress code to have a uniform appearance. In Scotland, styling kilt outfits for formal events requires attention.

Choosing the Right Tartan Kilt

The kilt variation is the most traditional one in men’s kilts. In outfits, it is the primary thing that needs the most attention while styling a Scottish outfit formally. In such events, the only choice is to dress in tartan kilts. So, choosing the right tartan stands as an important point. The priority must be dressing in a family tartan. If you do not have Scottish ancestry, a universal tartan might be a good choice but the color should complement the event’s theme.

Jacket Styles for Formal Events

The next thing that differentiates a formal outfit from a casual one is the type of jacket. In formal settings, usually Prince Charlie Jackets are worn. This is a formal jacket that has 3 closure buttons and its arms have the same number of buttons individually. You also get a short tail on the back.

Shirt and Tie Options

Kilt shirts or Ghillie shirts are the only options to attach for a formal setting. Ghillie shirts usually have laces instead of buttons. Similarly, down button shirts can also be paired but it is not a tradition to attach. Tie also plays an important role, and you can wear a bow tie in a solid color that complements the kilt.

Formal Footwear and Accessories

Kilt footwear also remains a problem for newbies when styling kilt outfits formally. In such settings, Ghillie Brogues, the traditional kilt shoes, are the only option. Accordingly, you must admire other accessories properly like kilt hoses in solid colors and tartan flashes to control socks.

Casual Kilt Outfit Styling

It’s time to discuss styling kilt outfits casually. In these events, there is no specific dress code and you can attach relaxed components with your kilts. Therefore, you have multiple options in every attachment. Proceed ahead to learn more!

Choosing the Right Kilt

The first thing here is to choose the right kilt. In formal settings, tartan kilts were necessary but you can opt for anything from utility kilts to leather kilts for casual environments. For outdoor activities, you have a range of utility kilts. Likewise, for Celeidh or musical festivals, you can wear leather kilts.

Shirt Choices for a Relaxed Look

White plain shirts are often symbolic of formal occasions, while the story is different for casual outfits. You can opt for T-shirts, polo shirts, or down-button shirts according to the event’s theme.

Casual Jackets and Outerwear

In casual situations, ample choices like Argyll Kilt Jackets for semi-formal events and tweed jackets for entire formal environments await you. The other options include blazers and hoodies.

Footwear Flexibility

How could we forget footwear when dressing in a kilt outfit for casual situations? There are significantly more possibilities since you can choose from sneakers, loafers, sandals, etc.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Kilt Length: You may know that kilt length matters a lot. So, must ensure the kilt falls just above the knee for a flattering and authentic look.

Wrong Footwear: Though there are many options still people go with the wrong ones. So, you must opt for kilt shoes, boots, or leather shoes depending on the formality.

Over-accessorizing or Under-accessorizing: People often neglect accessories, which is a mistake. Balance accessories like a sporran, kilt pin, and belt for formal looks. You can simplify them for casual settings.

Inappropriate Shirt or Jacket: Wear a dress shirt and tailored jacket for formal events, and a button-up or polo for casual settings. People ordinarily confuse this but you must not!

Poor Fit or Comfort: Ensure the kilt fits snugly at the waist and allows for comfortable movement, especially in casual settings.

FAQs about Styling Kilt Outfits

Can I wear my kilt outfit to non-Scottish events or locations?

Yes, you can do it but as part of fashion since it does not have any concern with Scottish history or settings. People usually do it to showcase their prominence in style.

Do I need to wear a sporran with a casual kilt?

You do not need a sporran with a casual kilt as a utility product since the kilts are fabricated with pockets and other necessities. Nevertheless, they are fine options as decorative ornaments and cultural admiration.

Can I wear a tie which is not black?

Yes, you can. Black ties are usually a preferred choice for formal events. In casual or semi-formal events, there are many options like standard ties in solid colors complementing kilts.

What can one put-on under the kilts in formal events?

People traditionally do not wear underwear or boxers under the kilt but this practice has become standard in recent years. In winter, one can wear leggings to prevent harsh weather conditions.

TUK Store, Your Ultimate Destination for Next Outfit!

No matter what event type is about to approach, wearing an outfit accordingly means a lot if you reside in Scotland. So, you must consult a reliable store to fulfill your needs. While looking for an online store to save your time and energy, you must consider The Utility Kilt Shop as your ultimate destination because of the quality that we provide at the lowest prices. If our products do not satisfy your needs, we also offer excellent return and exchange policies.